Vietnam health authorities launch rabies and contraception awareness campaigns

In Vietnam, health authorities have launched initiatives to mark World Rabies Day and World Contraception Day, focusing on disease prevention and population management.

In Lao Cai province, officials organized a campaign to raise awareness about rabies. Since the beginning of 2026, the province has recorded four human deaths due to rabies in the communes of Nam Chay, Nam Co, Hop Thanh, and Ban Xeo. These fatalities were attributed to individuals failing to report animal bites or seek vaccination. Additionally, nearly 8,000 cases of animal bites requiring preventive treatment have been recorded. Health officials are urging pet owners to manage animals responsibly and seek immediate medical attention following any exposure.

In Hanoi, the Ministry of Health held a program at Hanoi Medical University to observe World Contraception Day. Deputy Minister of Health Do Xuan Tuyen stated that Vietnam’s population strategy is shifting from family planning to broader population and development. He emphasized that while maintaining birth rates is important to counter rapid aging, the focus must remain on improving population quality through access to contraceptive information and counseling.

During the event, medical experts addressed concerns regarding emergency contraception. Dr. Phan Chi Thanh from Hanoi Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital clarified that emergency contraceptive pills do not cause infertility or sterility, though they should not be used as a regular method due to lower efficacy compared to other contraceptive options.